Houston: Flo Hyman - A Legacy That Rises Above The NetBig Stories • Season 3, Episode 42
Jan 29, 2026 • 18m
When volleyball legend Flo Hyman collapsed on the bench during a routine match in Japan in 1986, the world lost one of its greatest athletes at just 31 years old. But her story didn't end there. In this episode of Big Stories, host Cleon Wall explores the remarkable life of former Houston Cougar Flo Hyman—a six-foot-five powerhouse who helped transform USA volleyball into a world-class program, earned Olympic silver in 1984, and inspired countless athletes with her humility and drive. In this podcast episode, we discover the woman behind the legend: someone who shared her scholarship, trained in secret to perfect her weaknesses, and lifted everyone around her. Flo's sudden death from Marfan Syndrome shocked the sports world, but it sparked a medical awareness revolution that has saved countless lives. Join us as we honor Flo Hyman and her courage, impact, and legacy that still rises above the net.
Guests:
Ruth Nelson - Former University of Houston volleyball coach and Flo's lifelong friend
Debbie Green - Former U.S Olympic volleyball player and teammate of Flo
Eileen Novins - Chief Global and Business Development Officer for the Marfan Syndrome Foundation